These Diner Menu Items Are Healthier Than You Think Slideshow

These Diner Menu Items Are Healthier Than You Think

Whether nothing else was open or you’re just looking for a cheap meal, diners have always been there for you. They’re open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon.

However cozy and nostalgic, diners aren’t exactly known for their calorie-consciousness. Mayonnaise and sour cream are two of the most essential ingredients for most diner dishes. Of course, some diners have made additions to their lengthy menus to account for diabetics and dieters. But so far as most diners are concerned, you’re there for the meatloaf and mac and cheese — if you wanted a heart-healthy salad, you’d have gone to Sweetgreen or something.

But somehow, you ended up at the diner. And while you’re not trying to bust your wallet, you’re also not trying to bust your gut. Diners at neighboring tables are sipping tall milkshakes and double-dipping mozzarella sticks. It seems you’re surrounded by matzo balls and thick-sliced pastrami, but you’re dedicated to your diet.

The good news is that, tucked inside those dozens of pages, between banana splits and celebrity sandwiches, are some surprisingly healthy options. You just have to know where to look.

Bagel and Lox

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Bagels have a bad reputation because of their carbs — and this quintessential New York sandwich looks even worse for your health since it’s slathered in thick cream cheese. But really, the meal has all the balance of a typical lunch or dinner. It’s all in the portions. Some diners think you want twice the smoked salmon they promise on the menu — if you’re watching your weight, you likely don’t. Simply be mindful of the amount of cream cheese and lox you’re really eating. Lox are great for you — filled with omega-3 fatty acids and protein — and carbs aren’t the demon you might think they are. Go ahead and enjoy your sandwich, tomatoes and capers and all.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

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Grilled chicken is a popular lean protein featured in many a skimpy salad. We’re here to tell you that you don’t have to choose the salad to be healthy. A grilled chicken sandwich sounds infinitely more satisfying and flavorful, offering a delicious alternative that’s still nutritious. As a bonus, you can often order the sandwich with a side of vegetables in place of your fries. Or go for both — who’s judging?

Gyro

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You remember the Greek salad we mentioned earlier? A gyro is basically this salad stuffed inside a pita and topped with tzatziki instead of oily vinaigrette. Tzatziki is made with yogurt as the main ingredient, adding extra protein without adding many extra calories. By the way, before you try to pronounce the word “gyro” to your waiter, brush up on how to say this and 30 other words you’re probably pronouncing wrong.

Pasta Primavera

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Why not add some fresh vegetables to your pasta? This is one of the least caloric pasta meals on the menu, mainly because it doesn’t involve a heavy cream-based sauce. But with garlicky vegetables and fresh basil, it truly doesn’t need one!

Potato Hash

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Potatoes are a low-calorie, high-fiber carbohydrate, despite the poor reputation they’ve acquired from being often served fried or mashed. Sautéed on a skillet with herbs, spices, and vegetables, they’re nutritious and so satisfying. These hashes are often topped with cheese, meat, or both.

Two of Everything Breakfast Specials

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A couple eggs, a couple pieces of meat, and a slice or two of toast. It’s the quintessential balanced breakfast, and it’s available everywhere. At some places, you can even ask that your bread be whole wheat.

If you’re not feeling anything on this list, we encourage you to be adventurous and try some of the diner’s specialty options. Every diner has something different, and it’s unlikely any of these exclusive menu items will be the unhealthiest diner meals in America.